Trusts and Estates
Experienced Georgia wills and trusts attorneys
With more than 40 years of combined experience, the attorneys at The Graham Law Firm possess in-depth knowledge about all aspects of trusts and estate issues, including:
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Estate planning
The experienced attorneys at The Graham Law Firm can advise you on the best approach to your estate planning. We thoroughly analyze your estate and strategize the best means of transferring your assets, minimizing taxes, establishing guardianship for your children, supporting personal philanthropic causes and protecting your loved ones. We can draft a will that reflects your desires and establish living trusts if they would be beneficial to your estate.
Probate
Our attorneys apply their extensive knowledge about Georgia probate court to guide you through the complex process of probating a will. We assist executors in all steps of the process, including:
- Creating a plan of action to probate the estate fairly and expeditiously
- Filing the will with the probate court in Georgia
- Closing and opening bank accounts
- Transferring assets from the deceased to the estate
- Valuating the estate
- Managing and liquidating assets as appropriate
- Paying taxes and other debts
- Locating beneficiaries
- Hiring professionals and experts when necessary
Drafting your last will and testament
A will is essential at every stage of your life, providing you with the opportunity to distribute your property, establish care for your children and otherwise express your wishes for what will happen upon your death. A will is necessary if you intend to leave property to someone who is not your blood relative, e.g., a domestic partner, a friend or a charity. If you die without a will, the court determines how your property is distributed, who cares for your children and even what happens to your beloved pet — and the decisions the court makes might not reflect your desires.
Changing your will
As your life evolves, so may your estate plan. You may need to update your will throughout your life. The Graham Law Firm drafts valid codicils that address changes in your financial situation, marital status, parenthood status, philanthropic interests and general lifestyle decisions.
Appointing a guardian
Your will allows you to make decisions about the future care of your minor children. This is especially crucial if you are a single parent or in the event that both parents die in a common incident. If you have not named a guardian for your children, the court appoints one, who may make parental decisions contrary to what you would have wanted. In your will, you can also make arrangements for the care of your pets, naming a guardian to take responsibility for them.
Creating an optimal estate plan
Drafting an effective will requires more than filling in a form. If a court determines that your will is invalid, your desires will not be honored upon your death. The attorneys at The Graham Law Firm meticulously draft your will and consider all aspects of your estate plan. We review your family arrangements, financial situation and philosophical goals to guide you in making the best estate planning decisions and draft your will accordingly.
Contact the meticulous estate planning lawyers at The Graham Law Firm
The Graham Law Firm serves clients in LaGrange and throughout West Georgia. Call the firm at 706-884-2727 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.
